Major accidents involving e-scooters in the UAE almost doubled in 2025, prompting renewed concerns over rider behavior, safety awareness, and the need for improved infrastructure.
An analysis of traffic data from the UAE Ministry of Interior conducted by RoadSafetyUAE showed that serious e-scooter crashes rose by 97 percent compared with 2024. The broader micro-mobility sector, which includes motorcycles, bicycles and electric bikes, recorded a 45 percent increase in major accidents, exceeding the overall 23 percent rise across all vehicle categories.
The findings coincided with a nationwide survey commissioned by Al Wathba Insurance and RoadSafetyUAE involving 1,010 residents, which revealed widespread concern over unsafe e-scooter use.
According to the study, 93 percent of respondents said they regularly witness reckless or unsafe riding, while 90 percent said rider behavior makes them feel unsafe. Helmet use emerged as a major issue, with nine in 10 respondents reporting that riders are often seen without helmets.
Nearly 89 percent said riders frequently use prohibited areas such as sidewalks or roads against traffic flow. Another 88 percent reported seeing riders who appear to be younger than the minimum legal age of 16, while 81 percent said riders often travel without lights at night.
Despite the safety concerns, six out of 10 respondents said e-scooters serve an important transportation need in their communities.
RoadSafetyUAE Founder and Managing Director Thomas Edelmann said the sharp rise in accidents and reports of unsafe riding highlight the need for immediate action.
He said rider behavior and compliance with regulations remain major challenges despite the growing popularity of e-scooters as a mode of transport.
The survey also found strong support for expanding dedicated e-scooter infrastructure, with 88 percent of respondents backing the development of more designated lanes, crossings and safe riding zones.
Al Wathba Insurance Chief Financial Officer Muralikrishnan Raman said there is a need to balance the benefits of micro-mobility with public safety.
RoadSafetyUAE called for a broader approach involving authorities, schools, parents, communities and employers to improve rider education, strengthen awareness campaigns and encourage responsible riding practices.
Experts said stronger enforcement, education initiatives and better infrastructure could help curb the rising number of serious accidents while ensuring e-scooters remain a safe and sustainable transport option in the UAE.
